4 Runway-Inspired Hairstyles for Summer 2017

The verdict is in: braided up-dos are the hottest look of the season.

July 31, 2017

By Aryn Strickland / Photo: Fresh and Co. Salon

For the grand opening of the Fresh and Co. hair salon in Vancouver’s Oakridge Centre, the salon teamed up with hair artists from L’Oréal to design and showcase their fave runway-inspired styles. The takeaway? Braids are in for summer! From a finessed ponytail to a sweeping bun, it’s all about the plaited detail—but don’t be fooled by their seemingly messy quality. These pulled-back looks are for more than just the beach; they should act as catwalk-ready inspiration for the everyday.

1. Regal Fishtail

Add some volume and extra detail to the cult-favourite fishtail braid by adding a poof at the front. To get the look, incorporate the remaining teased section of hair into a low fishtail braid, remembering to keep a piece loose so that you can hide the hair tie that holds the braid in place. Elegant enough for a fancy dinner date, but understated enough for window shopping downtown, this look can easily take you from day to night.

2. Finessed Ponytail

Similar to the fishtail style above, the L’Oréal team’s finessed pony tails starts with a poof that is then twisted and pinned securely around the base of the ponytail. Mid-way down the ponytail, the hair is divided into three sections, so that one piece can be wrapped around the other two for a sophisticated bit of detail.

3. Textured Bun

This loose, braided bun is perfect for Sunday-brunching or patio hopping this summer. The top section of hair—folded and pinned underneath a wrapped braided bun—looks effortless, but you’ll want to be generous with the hairspray and bobby pins to avoid making regular trips to the powder room to tuck in fallen pieces.

4. Sweeping Fold

This look is ideal for those with shorter hair—especially if you’re trying to keep cool during an outdoor concert. Simply sweep the hair upwards and secure in place with a braided detail and several hairpins.

Join the discussion

Get the Newsletter

Own your city with Vancouver’s thrice-weekly scoop on the latest restaurant news, must-shop hotspots and can’t miss events. Rest assured your email is safe with us.

Vancouver magazine is the indispensable playbook to Canada’s most exciting city. For over 50 years, this city’s influencers have turned to our iconic brand for insightful, informative coverage of the issues, the people, the places and the events that shape Vancouver. From in-depth reporting and analysis of the issues that matter most, to expert fashion and travel guides, reviews of the buzziest new restaurants and the best in wine and spirits, VanMag uncovers what matters now.